On your bike
You don’t have to be hardcore to cycle this summer, Dubai Roadster’s Gaby Hohmann says starting the sport is as easy as, well, riding a bike. Lycra is strictly optional.
Dubai’s drivers may make the Incredible Hulk seem docile and, yes, the UV rays are relentless, but that hasn’t stopped the Dubai Roadsters getting on their bikes with dedicated regularity. For the past four years the committed bunch of more than 200 pedal-pushers have been slipping into skin-tight shorts and strapping on helmets for their weekly ride, even peddling throughout the summer. And before you relegate the cyclists to that ‘scarily hardcore’ category, it’s not just the serious competitors getting in on the act – enthusiastic novices are also signing up in droves to Dubai Roadsters’ ‘beginners’ ride’ held every month. With the Tour de France taking place from July 1 to July 23, Time Out were inspired to take up the two-wheeled challenge, but before attempting to jump in the saddle at Dubai Roadsters’ next beginners’ ride we sought the help of riding expert Gaby Hohmann. She has been pedaling away competitively for more than 10 years and runs the locallyrenowned Wolfi’s Bike Shop, with her husband – the titular Wolfi, as well as helping beginners find their feet. We’re already reserving a yellow jersey to wear after a few more months practice…
Why hold a beginners ride – everyone knows how to ride a bike don’t they?
We had people expressing an interest in joining our group rides, but they were nervous about riding with so many other people. Plus, they wanted to find out about the hand gestures and the rules of the road, for example. We have our group rides around the quiet roads in Nad Al Sheba, so even nervous cyclists can gain confidence.
Last month you had more than 60 cyclists at the beginners’ ride. Why is it getting so popular?
Well, we try to make everyone feel welcome and riders can team up with someone who is the same fitness level as them. There are also three different lengths of ride so everyone can choose how hard they want to make the ride for themselves. Riding in a group is sociable – we get up to 80 people joining our Friday morning rides.
What kit do I need?
Nothing, you don’t even need a bike to get started. If you are not too sure if riding is something you will enjoy, you can hire a bike from Wolfi’s Bike Shop – we can also lend you all the kit: such as helmets and lights. You’ll need to bring your own sense of humour though – and a bit of energy too.
Do you have to wear lycra?
Wearing lycra is one of the thrills of cycling! It’s worn because it’s one of the lighter materials and whilst cycling you want to feel as unencumbered as possible. But when you’re starting out you can wear anything you like – as long as it’s light and you feel comfortable in it.
Who can join in?
Anybody keen to ride – our youngest cyclist is 14. We have both men and women members of all nationalities and religious denominations.
Why should I join a group? Can’t I just hop on a bike and start peddling down Sheikh Zayed Road?
Only if you have an engine strapped to the back! Seriously though, no matter where you are in the world, it is always advisable to ride on quieter roads. Dubai Roadsters can tell you where the safe cycling routes are in the city and your bike should be checked for roadworthiness. Yes, beginners can just hop on a bike, but they need to have planned their route beforehand and you should always let someone know where you are going and what time to expect you back. Group riding as well as being great fun, is also much safer.
Isn’t cycling on the road dangerous – there have been some sad incidents in the press regarding cyclists being seriously injured?
Riding in a group is the safest way to cycle. Any cyclist that is killed is one too many – a close friend of ours was killed earlier this year, but fortunately these incidences are rare.
Judging by some of the drivers on Dubai’s roads it seems like this could be one of the worst places to cycle in the world – is this true?
Well, I don’t know about that. As in the rest of the world, you have to be safety conscious – wearing a helmet, using lights, being aware and visible. It would be great if there were cycle paths around Dubai as in other developed cities, as this would encourage more people to ride, which would also reduce the amount of traffic and pollutants in the air. One is planned for about 6kms on Beach Road, which is a start at least.
You cycle all year round – including the summer. Are you mad?
Yes it’s true, we do cycle all year round. In the summer months we ride earlier in the mornings before the sun rises and later in the evenings. When you are riding your bike you create a draught that helps keep you cool and most helmets nowadays are designed with aerodynamic slits to cool your head too. And of course we’re mad – we’re cyclists!
Are there safety precautions to be aware of when cycling in Dubai’s summer heat?
Drinking plenty of fluids is absolutely crucial in maintaining hydration whilst cycling, especially during the hotter months.
Why is cycling a good sport to take up?
It’s an aerobic activity that is low impact. This means that it is better for your joints. You can do it alone or in a group and once you have your bike and accessories you just need to have the enthusiasm to get out there and do it as often as possible. Cycling in Dubai is a good social activity as well, so if you are new to town it is a good way to meet likeminded people. Michelle Byrne.
Dubai Roadsters’ monthly beginners’ ride will be held Sunday July 2 from 7.30pm at Nad Al Sheba. They meet every Sunday and Tuesday evening at Nad Al Sheba and there is also a two hour meet every Friday at 5.30am from the Lime Tree Café on Jumeirah Beach Road. Dubai Roadsters (04 339 4453 / 050 644 3254), Wolfi’s Bike Shop between 2nd and 3rd Interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road. www.wbs.ae.